Sweating about an interview coming up where you’re going to be applying as a research director of investments? No worries! Listed below, you’ll find some of the most common research director of investments interview questions with advice on how to reply. Check em out below and thank us later!
What experience do you have as a research director of investments?
Here, you’ll obviously want to speak to your specific skills as they relate to the position you’re applying for. What happens if you don’t have any experience? By thinking about the question ahead of time, you can have a reply at your fingertips. Your interviewer will appreciate your ability to relate skills gained in one position to another.
Answer Sample:
While my experience with x is limited, while working under y at my last job I really got to learn the ropes about z
Things are changing quickly in our industry. What do you feel are the biggest challenges within the role of research director of investments?
To be certain, a wide range of answers are acceptable here. AI, automation, and inexpensive labor are all interesting items to bring up. No matter what you answer here, do some research ahead of time and be sure you can back up your answer.
Answer Sample:
Its hard to know for sure with industry factors such as x and y changing so many things – all I can say is that Im excited for the challenges that come with that
What do you to ensure error free work?
Hey, no one is perfect – but when it comes to accounting & finance, perfection in numbers is expected. Here, your interviewer isn’t looking for some superhuman form of error free workmanship. What they’re seeking here is some method you deploy for QA.
Answer Sample:
While it sounds quirky, Ive developed my own system for QA that I call the x – its bailed me out more times than I can remember!
Tell me about a time you used numbers to tell an effective story?
The truth is in the numbers. Here, it isn’t about you being right or a client being wrong, it’s about finding the facts through data. Most accountants and financial professionals are doing this on a daily basis, but try and illustrate the impact of what you provided.
Answer Sample:
A client had struggled with x for nearly a decade until I was able to clearly present the issue visually – a lightbulb went off, and the clients business is better than ever
Tell me about a time when you received difficult feedback. How did you react?
Difficult feedback is difficult for a reason. Your interviewer realizes that everyone makes mistakes, and they’re not looking to hang you out to dry. What you’re going to want to do here is be sure to let the interviewer know what you did in reaction to this feedback. Was there denial? Deflection? By dealing with difficult situations calmly and with full accountability, you demonstrate qualities every employer loves.
Answer Sample:
No one likes these situations, but Ive found that dealing with it factually and without predjudice tends to be the best approach
Give me an example of when your attention (or lack of attention) affected the outcome of a project. Why?
Details, details, details! No matter what your role in the accounting industry, this one’s important. Here, your interviewer is looking for examples.
Answer Sample:
My careful attention to x and y prevented a major audit last year
Which software and/or applications are you proficient in?
These days, your mastery of accounting software is practically expected. If your experience is limited, make sure you at least have a basic understanding of industry standards prior to the interview. Take some time to ensure you are able to to name popular applications, and have a solid idea of their purpose.
Answer Sample:
Most of my experience is with x, but I downloaded a demo of y and really think it warrants a closer look
What sort of work culture do you find most appealing and why?
Culture is king these days, and for good reason. Many studies prove that hiring for culture first and ability second yields far superior results. While you may be a lone wolf, be careful how you answer this question should it fall out of alignment with the organization.
Answer Sample:
I succeed when given clear expectations of me and my team, and find a balance of working individually as well as alongside a team is when Im most content
What made you leave your last job – and why are you choosing us?
Tread lightly! This question can be a dealbreaker if answered improperly. Your need for better pay or indicating that your ‘old boss was an idiot’ may leave your interviewer with the wrong impression of you. Even if you were subject to downsizing or let go for other reasons, keep it short and concise, and avoid drama regardless of how tempting it may be.
Answer Sample:
My last position came to an end rather organically, and its now time to seek new opportunities